Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may know, Iarnród Éireann has completed a study to assess the feasibility of incremental improvements in train capacity between Galway and Athenry. The outputs of this feasibility study helped inform the All-Island Strategic Rail Review.

The All-Island Strategic Rail Review is being undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland and will inform the development of the railway sector on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades, to 2050, in line with net zero targets in both jurisdictions.

Work on the Review is now at an advanced stage and a draft report was published for a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) public consultation last July. Double tracking from Athenry to Galway is included in the recommendations in the draft Report.

The public consultation phase of the SEA process concluded on 29th September and submissions are now under review by officials from both jurisdictions. Following this process, it is expected that a final report will be submitted for Ministerial approval and ultimately the approval of the Government, as well as to the Minister for Infrastructure. It is expected that the final Review will be published by the summer.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the proposed double tracking from Galway to Athenry.

Noting their responsibility in relation to the matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for their consideration and direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.